Things To Do
Seasonal Activities
Pumpkin patches and apple orchards around the metro offer hayrides, cider tastings, and the kind of golden‑hour photos you can only get in Minnesota fall. Neighborhoods from St. Paul’s Summit Avenue to Minneapolis’ Minnehaha Parkway turn into leafy tunnels perfect for long walks or bike rides, made even better when you’re near one of Minnesota’s famous lakes. As temperatures dip, breweries and cafés roll out their fall menus—think spiced ales, hot cider, and pastries that taste like sweater weather. And of course, Halloween spirit is everywhere: haunted basements, corn mazes, costume parades, and spooky pop‑up events that make the season feel playful and a little mischievous.
Twin Cities Marathon Finish Line
Catching the Twin Cities Marathon is a treat in its own right, and it happens to be going on the weekend of our wedding. The route winds past sparkling lakes, tree‑lined parkways, and the Mississippi River, showing off some of the most beautiful corners of Minneapolis and St. Paul. Spectators get to soak in crisp fall colors, lively neighborhoods, and that unmistakable marathon-day buzz. Even if you’re not running, lots of festivities are involved, so it’s worth checking out.
Stillwater
Stillwater, Minnesota is the kind of small town that feels made for a wedding weekend. Nestled along the St. Croix River, it’s packed with charm—think historic brick buildings, cozy cafés, boutique shops, and scenic riverwalks. Guests can spend the day exploring local wineries, taking a paddleboat cruise, wandering the antique stores, or grabbing ice cream on Main Street. And in the fall, the whole town turns into a postcard, with bluffs and tree‑lined streets glowing in shades of gold and red. For non-locals, it often appears on lists of cutest or most beautiful small towns in America. It’s the perfect backdrop for celebrating together.
Duluth
If you’re up for a roadtrip, Duluth is an unbeatable October getaway, where Lake Superior’s shoreline meets a blaze of fall color. The city’s hillsides turn into a patchwork of reds and golds, perfect for scenic drives along Skyline Parkway or leisurely strolls on the Lakewalk. Cool mornings pair beautifully with a stop at a cozy café, and crisp afternoons are ideal for exploring Canal Park, hiking at Gooseberry Falls, or watching ships roll into the harbor. With autumn festivals, craft breweries, and that unmistakable North Shore charm, it’s great for a day trip.